I re-contoured an oil finished paddle last night, but didn't remove all of the original finish. Sanding it was a pain, as it clogged the paper and smeared. When I applied a new coat of oil, the finish came out slightly rough, with fine spotches in the areas where the old finish was not completely removed. The question is: how do I fix it?

My first thought is to sand between each oil coat in order to gradually blend the old and new finishes, and smooth the surface. I've also considered wet sanding with either wet/dry paper or steel wool, using the oil finish as a lubricant. Is either of these methods likely to work?

Now I know why the smart paddle makers out there tell you not to apply a finish until you're satified with the shape.